There are a lot of things out there which really do suck. Being aware of them is actually a positive thing, because then you're aware of pitfalls to avoid.
Learning from our mistakes (en masse) is key to the continual evolution of civilisation. That does mean exposing yourself to some pretty grim realities, but also some very exciting possibilities going forward.
The media are generally obsessed with bad news. It is said that bad news sells better than good news, but I'm not sure when this was last tested. Things could have changed? It would be interesting to know how a 50/50 good and bad news channel might get on. People are getting tired of Trolls (including a variety of professional ones) continually stirring up trouble. But of course which change-makers are heroes and pioneers and which are self-centered scumbags depends almost entirely on your own point of view.
Personally, I try to find enough good things going on to balance out the bad news. That could be in person (not so much at the moment), in local news, or in national news. It is there, even if you have to dig a bit deeper to find it. Positive policy changes, random acts of kindness, celebrations, positive environmental news, animal rescues, humour, scientific discovery....
Also, try to only worry about things you can influence. If you feel strongly that something is wrong, and you can offer help in some way, get involved! Likewise if something is really good and you want to support it, get involved! But tales of DOOOOOOOM such as asteroids crashing into the earth, well nothing you can do there, 50/50 whatever. So why worry about it? Either it happens or it doesn't, your worrying will make no difference at all. So best not to waste energy worrying, and do something constructive instead.
13 Jun 2020, 8:37 am
